JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Nov. 1, 2016) – The ETSU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced Tuesday that Eastman has agreed to be the game sponsor for the Buccaneers’ women’s basketball game against the Tennessee Lady Vols on Nov. 15 at the ETSU/MSHA Athletic Center.

The game – which will be the first meeting between the two schools in Johnson City since 1981 – is expected to be a sellout and will be one of the seminal moments in the history of the ETSU athletics program.

“We are extremely grateful to Eastman for their support of this historic game,” said ETSU Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Richard Sander. “Hosting the Tennessee Lady Vols is a special opportunity for our women’s basketball team and for our entire athletic department. For our program to reach its goal of Excellence Every Day, we need the help of the local business community, and this sponsorship from Eastman is an example of that type of critical support.”

ETSU women’s basketball head coach Brittney Ezell said the Bucs were glad to have Eastman onboard for the game.

“Our team is very appreciative of the support and efforts by Eastman to help us make Nov. 15 a memorable experience for our team and fans,” Ezell said. “This will be a unique game for our program and it’s wonderful for Eastman to be a part of it.”

Eastman has a long history or supporting women in sports. The company has been involved with the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame for 20 years and played a major role in the creation of the life-sized sculpture that greets visitors as they walk in the door of the Hall of Fame in Knoxville. Annually, a smaller version of the sculpture is presented to each of the Hall of Fame inductees. Additionally, Eastman is involved with the National Association of Collegiate Women Athletics Administrators and is committed to advancing education and empowerment of women.

"We believe empowerment facilitates success and enables our team members and communities to be inclusive and influential,” said David A. Golden, senior vice president, chief legal & sustainability officer and corporate secretary. “We are passionate about fostering impactful collaborations with organizations that drive positive change, including the advancement of women in athletics. Research shows that girls’ participation in sports develops leadership skills and results in higher education and employment rates. Sport breaks down barriers and makes a difference in the lives of billions of people every day on stages large and small. At Eastman, we want to be a part of that difference.”

Fans interested in season tickets to ETSU women’s basketball or wishing to purchase single game seats for the Bucs and Lady Vols game, can do so by visiting ETSUBucs.com and clicking on the tickets link, or by calling 423-439-ETSU (3878).